Autonomic cardiac modulation in obstructive sleep apnea: effect of an oral jaw-positioning appliance.

Chest. 2006 Nov;130(5):1362-8

Authors: Coruzzi P, Gualerzi M, Bernkopf E, Brambilla L, Brambilla V, Broia V, Lombardi C, Parati G

BACKGROUND: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are characterized by deranged cardiovascular variability, a well-established marker of cardiovascular risk. While long-term treatment with continuous positive airway pressure leads to a significant improvement of cardiovascular variability, little is known of the possibility of achieving the same results with other therapeutic approaches. The aim of our study was to investigate the responses of autonomic indexes of neural cardiac control to another type of OSA treatment based on an oral jaw-positioning appliance. METHODS: In 10 otherwise healthy subjects with OSA (OSA+) and in 10 subjects without OSA (OSA-) we measured heart rate, BP, and indices of autonomic cardiac regulation derived from time-domain and spectral analysis of R-R interval (RRI), before and after 3 months of treatment with the oral device. High-frequency (HF) power of RRI was taken as an index of parasympathetic cardiac modulation, and the ratio between low-frequency (LF) and HF RRI powers as an indirect marker of the balance between sympathetic and parasympathetic cardiac modulation. RESULTS: At baseline, in comparison with OSA- subjects, OSA+ subjects displayed a significantly lower RRI variance (p < 0.02) and reduced HF RRI powers (p < 0.001). After 3 months of treatment with the oral device, the OSA+ group showed a marked reduction in apnea-hypopnea index (p < 0.001), a lengthening in RRI and a significant increase in its variance (p < 0,02), an increased HF RRI power (from 134 +/- 26 to 502 +/- 48 ms2, p < 0.001), and a reduction in LF/HF RRI power ratio (from 3.11 +/- 0.8 to 1.5 +/- 0.5). As a result of these changes, after the 3-month treatment there were no more significant differences between the two groups in these parameters. In both OSA+ and OSA- groups, body weight, heart rate, and BP did not change over time. CONCLUSIONS: Three months of treatment with a specific oral jaw-positioning appliance improves cardiac autonomic modulation in otherwise healthy patients with OSA of mild degree.

PMID: 17099011 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Nonsplint therapies.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2006 Nov;137(11):1498; author reply 1498, 1500

Authors: Kidder GM

PMID: 17082268 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The treatment of painful temporomandibular joint clicking with oral splints: a randomized clinical trial.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2006 Aug;137(8):1108-14

Authors: Conti PC, dos Santos CN, Kogawa EM, de Castro Ferreira Conti AC, de Araujo Cdos R

BACKGROUND: The authors compared the efficacy of bilateral balanced and canine guidance (occlusal) splints in the treatment of temporomandibular joint (TMJ) pain in subjects who experienced joint clicking with a nonoccluding splint in a double-blind, controlled randomized clinical trial. METHODS: The authors randomly assigned 57 people with signs of disk displacement and TMJ pain into three groups according to the type of splint: bilateral balanced, canine guidance and nonoccluding. The authors followed the groups for six months using analysis of a visual analog scale (VAS), palpation of the TMJ and masticatory muscles, mandibular movements and joint sounds. They used repeated analysis of variance and a chi(2) test to test the hypothesis. RESULTS: The type of guidance used did not influence the pain reduction, yet both occlusal splints were superior to the nonoccluding splint, on the basis of the VAS. Despite similar outcomes in relation to opening, left lateral and protrusive movements, TMJ and muscle pain on palpation, subjects who used the occlusal splints had improved clinical outcomes. The frequency of joint noises decreased over time, with no significant differences among groups. Subjects in the groups using the occlusal splints reported more comfort. CONCLUSION: The type of lateral guidance did not influence the subjects' improvement. All of the subjects had a general improvement on the VAS, though subjects in the occlusal splint groups had better results that did subjects in the nonoccluding splint group.

PMID: 16873326 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The efficacy of traditional, low-cost and nonsplint therapies for temporomandibular disorder: a randomized controlled trial.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2006 Aug;137(8):1099-107; quiz 1169

Authors: Truelove E, Huggins KH, Mancl L, Dworkin SF

BACKGROUND: Treatment recommendations for patients with painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) range from conservative treatments such as physiotherapy to aggressive and irreversible treatments such as restorative reconstruction and joint surgery. METHODS: The authors randomized 200 subjects diagnosed with TMD into three groups: usual conservative, dentist-prescribed self-care treatment without any intraoral splint appliance (UT); UT plus a conventional flat-plane hard acrylic splint (HS); and UT plus a soft vinyl (a low-cost athletic mouth guard) splint (SS). Subjects completed questionnaires and clinical examinations at three, six and 12 months. RESULTS: The authors observed no significant differences among the groups in TMD-related pain levels or other common signs and symptoms of TMD at baseline (BL) or at any follow-up. The changes from BL were comparable for all three groups. The authors did not note any significant differences at any follow-up for compliance with study protocols or for occurrences of adverse effects from either splint type. For HS versus SS, there were significant differences in rates of splint use, but these differences were not accompanied by differences in either self-reported symptoms or in clinical findings. CONCLUSIONS: All patients improved over time, and traditional splint therapy offered no benefit over the SS splint therapy. Neither splint therapy provided a greater benefit than did self-care treatment without splint therapy. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: These findings suggest that clinicians who treat patients with TMD should consider prescribing low-cost nonsplint self-care therapy for most patients.

PMID: 16873325 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The treatment of temporomandibular disorders with stabilizing splints in general dental practice: one-year follow-up.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2006 Aug;137(8):1089-98; quiz 1168-9

Authors: Wassell RW, Adams N, Kelly PJ

BACKGROUND: The authors evaluated temporomandibular disorder (TMD) outcomes in general dental practice one year after treatment with stabilizing splints (SS) or nonoccluding control splints (CS). METHODS: Seventy-two randomly allocated subjects completed initial treatment. The outcomes measures were a pain visual analog scale (VAS), muscle tenderness, temporomandibular joint (TMJ) tenderness, interincisal opening, TMJ clicks and headaches. After initial treatment, 81 percent of the subjects were found to have been treated satisfactorily. The dentists referred the remaining subjects to a dental hospital. At one year, the authors recalled 52 of the original subjects for evaluation. RESULTS: Improvements after initial treatment were maintained at one year for all outcomes, except for TMJ clicking, which returned to pretreatment levels. Eighty-one percent of the subjects rated their treatment as either good or excellent in reducing jaw pain. The authors found that subjects were aware of more of their TMJ clicks than dentists observed at the one-year clinical examination, but most subjects thought their clicking or the associated pain had been reduced. Fifty-five percent subjects had used their splints in the previous six months, but only 31 percent of these had done so daily. There were no significant differences between splint groups. CONCLUSION: At one year, a good response to TMD treatment in general practice had been maintained, but many subjects still had clicking TMJs. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Trained dentists can manage TMD satisfactorily, with only a small proportion of patients needing specialist attention.

PMID: 16873324 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Model surgery technique for Le Fort I osteotomy--alteration in occlusal plane associated with upward transposition of posterior maxilla.

Bull Tokyo Dent Coll. 2005 Aug;46(3):67-78

Authors: Yosano A, Yamamoto M, Shouno T, Shiiki S, Hamase M, Kasahara K, Takaki T, Takano N, Uchiyama T, Shibahara T

It is difficult to translate analytical values into accurate model surgery by traditional methods, especially when moving the posterior maxilla. This is because cephalometric radiographic analysis generated information on movement of the posterior nasal spine (PNS) can not be recreated in model surgery. Therefore, we propose a method that accurately reflects such analysis and simulation of movement using Quick Ceph 2000 (Orthodontic Processing Corporation, USA). This will allow the enrichment of model surgery prior to actual surgery in cases where upward movement of the posterior maxilla is involved. All patients who participated in this study had skeletal mandibular prognathism characterized by a small occlusal plane angle in respect to the S-N plane. Cephalometric radiographs were taken and analyzed with the Quick Ceph 2000. Pre- and post-surgical evaluations were performed using Sassouni arc analysis and Ricketts analysis. Prior to transposition, we then prepared an anterior occlusal bite record on a model mounted on an articulator. This bite was then used as a reference when the molar parts were to be transposed upwards. The use of a occlusal bite permitted an accurate translation of the preoperative computer simulation into model surgery, thus facilitating favorable surgical results.

PMID: 16598183 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Gastroesophageal reflux diagnosed by occlusal splint tintion.

Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2006 Jan;11(1):E26-8

Authors: Cebri&#xE1;n-Carretero JL, López-Arcas-Calleja JM

The gastroesophageal reflux (GER) disease is a very frequent digestive disorder, mainly characterised by the reflux of the gastric acidic content to the esophage in abnormal quantities. There are different situations that favour this situation but almost in all of them rely an incompetence of the esophagic sphincter. The clinical consequences are many, including oral manifestations. Among all of them the most frequent is the esophagitis followed by symptoms at the pharynx or larynx and finally, the oral cavity. At this level fundamentally we will find enamel and oral mucosa erosions. We report the case of a patient who was indirectly diagnosed of her esophague disease by the observation of the alterations in the occlusal splint induced by the gastric reflux. We review the literature concerning the above topic and its possible association with the miofascial syndrome.

PMID: 16388289 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The advantages of minimally invasive dentistry.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2005 Nov;136(11):1563-5

Authors: Christensen GJ

Minimally invasive dentistry, in cases in which it is appropriate, is a concept that preserves dentitions and supporting structures. In this column, I have discussed several examples of minimally invasive dental techniques. This type of dentistry is gratifying for dentists and appreciated by patients. If more dentists would practice it, the dental profession could enhance the public's perception of its honesty and increase its professionalism as well.

PMID: 16329421 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Increase of condylar displacement between centric relation and maximal habitual intercuspation after occlusal splint therapy.

Braz Oral Res. 2005 Jul-Sep;19(3):176-82

Authors: Fantini SM, Paiva JB, Rino Neto J, Dominguez GC, Abr&#xE3;o J, Vigoritto JW

The present study assessed condylar displacement between initial maximal habitual intercuspation (MHI) and centric relation (CR), recorded after using a deprogramming occlusal splint for an average period of 7.8 +/- 2.1 months prior to any orthodontic treatment. The sample consisted of 22 subjects, 11 male and 11 female, with an average age of 14.2 +/- 1.4 years, with Class II malocclusion and with no apparent signs or symptoms of temporomandibular dysfunction (TMD). Condylar displacement was measured using a Panadent axis position indicator in decimal fractions of a millimeter. The original mean vertical displacements and the corresponding standard deviations were 4.24 +/- 2.53 mm and 3.86 +/- 2.72 mm, respectively, for the right and left sides. Because a significant negative correlation was observed between original condylar displacements and age factors, the displacement values were statistically adjusted to 2.74 +/- 2.00 mm and 2.44 +/- 1.93 mm. On the horizontal plane, the mean displacements measured were -0.72 +/- 1.53 mm on the right side and -0.51 +/- 1.98 mm on the left. The mean displacement on the transversal plane was 0.03 +/- 0.87 mm. A comparison between these values and those observed in non-deprogrammed groups, as well as those published in the related literature, indicates that use of occlusal splints results in greater mean condylar displacement values, especially vertically, between CR and MHI positions, which contributed to a more accurate orthodontic diagnosis.

PMID: 16308604 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Stabilization splint therapy for the treatment of temporomandibular myofascial pain: a systematic review.

J Dent Educ. 2005 Nov;69(11):1242-50

Authors: Al-Ani Z, Gray RJ, Davies SJ, Sloan P, Glenny AM

The aim of this review is to establish the effectiveness of stabilization splint (SS) therapy in reducing symptoms in patients with myofascial pain. Searching of electronic databases, handsearching of relevant key journals, and screening of reference lists of included studies were undertaken. There was no language restriction, and unpublished research was sought. The selection criteria were randomized controlled trials comparing splint therapy to either no treatment or another active treatment. Data extraction and validity assessment were carried out independently and in duplicate. Studies were grouped according to treatment type. Twenty potentially relevant Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs) were identified. Only twelve met the inclusion criteria. There is insufficient evidence either for or against the use of stabilization splint therapy over other active interventions for the treatment of temporomandibular myofascial pain. However, it appears that stabilization splint therapy may be beneficial for reducing pain severity at rest and on palpation and depression when compared to no treatment. The authors suggested the need for well conducted RCTs that pay attention to method of allocation, blind outcome assessment, sample size, and duration of follow-up. Various measures were adopted to assess the outcomes of treatment. Standardization of the methods used to measure outcomes of the treatment of myofascial pain should be established in future RCTs.

PMID: 16275687 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Obstructive sleep apnea: diagnosis, medical management and dental implications.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2005 Aug;136(8):1121-9; quiz 1166-7

Authors: Magliocca KR, Helman JI

BACKGROUND: Patients with undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) represent a major public health problem, and studies suggest that the incidence of OSA may be even higher than estimated. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: The authors reviewed current literature describing comorbidities of patients with OSA. RESULTS: Sleep medicine is a relatively new field. Dental practitioners may lack educational exposure and, as a result, feel uncomfortable asking their patients sleep-related questions. While patients with well-controlled OSA present few difficulties for routine dental treatment, it is imperative that health care professionals understand the comorbidities associated with OSA and that untreated OSA may contribute to increased morbidity and mortality. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Dental professionals have a unique doctor-patient relationship that affords them a role in recognizing sleep disorders by exploring the history of patients who are sleepy.

PMID: 16161367 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Sleep nasendoscopy: a diagnostic tool for predicting treatment success with mandibular advancement splints in obstructive sleep apnoea.

Eur J Orthod. 2005 Dec;27(6):607-14

Authors: Johal A, Battagel JM, Kotecha BT

This prospective, cohort study evaluated the role of sleep nasendoscopy (SNE) with simultaneous mandibular protrusion in predicting successful mandibular advancement splint (MAS) therapy in subjects with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). Nineteen OSA subjects diagnosed by overnight polysomnography were referred for MAS therapy, following SNE investigation. A Herbst MAS was fabricated for each subject. Once this had been adjusted for maximal, subjective, therapeutic effect, follow-up sleep studies were undertaken with the appliance in situ. The SNE was repeated with the appliance in place to allow the effects of the original mandibular protrusion and the actual effect of the MAS to be compared. The MAS was removed and the original and current site(s) of obstruction evaluated. Pre-treatment SNE showed airway obstruction at the following levels: intermittent multi-level (16 subjects), sustained multi-level (two subjects) and tongue base (one subject). In all individuals, gentle advancement of the mandible during SNE improved airway patency and reduced snoring. When the SNE was repeated with the MAS in situ, all subjects showed improvements in snoring and airway patency. Follow-up sleep studies confirmed the efficacy of the MAS, with all patients showing a reduction in the apnoea/hypopnoea index (AHI). Median reductions in AHI (from 28.1 to 6.1, P < 0.001) and Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) scores (from 9 to 6, P < 0.001) were highly statistically significant. The results suggest that SNE with concomitant mandibular advancement to mimic MAS wear, could be a valuable prognostic indicator of successful MAS treatment.

PMID: 16049036 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Bifid condyle: case report.

Med Oral Patol Oral Cir Bucal. 2005 May-Jul;10(3):277-9

Authors: Corchero-Mart&#xED;n G, Gonzalez-Terán T, García-Reija MF, Sánchez-Santolino S, Saiz-Bustillo R

The double headed mandible condyle is a rare alteration that is frequently diagnosticated as an incidental finding in a panoramic radiograph. The different theories about its etiology are explained in this article. Symptoms described with bifid condyles vary from case to case, but in most instances are absent. Computer tomography is the ideal imaging method to evaluate the condyle morphology and to role out any degenerative process to achieve the differential diagnosis. Treatment is conservative for symptomatic patients with TMJ disorders, surgical treatment is described in literature in TMJ ankylosis that develops in bifid condyles secondary to trauma.

PMID: 15876974 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Quality of life of patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome treated with an intraoral mandibular repositioner.

Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2004 Jun;62(2A):222-5

Authors: Machado MA, Prado LB, Carvalho LB, Francisco S, Silva AB, Atallah AN, Prado GF

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is a very important and prevalent disease, which is associated with a poor quality of life in many patients. Treatments for OSAS include surgery, Continuous Positive Air way Pressure, and an intraoral mandibular repositioner (IOMR), but the tendency of sleep centers is to emphasize the apnea index, neglecting quality of life as treatment outcome. OBJECTIVE: To verify to what extent treatment with an IOMR improves the OSAS patient's quality of life. METHOD: Eleven male patients aged 34 to 63 years (mean=49) with mild to moderate OSAS were evaluated using the Calgary SAQLI questionnaire applied before and four weeks after treatment with an IOMR. The mandibular repositioners were manufactured individually for each patient with acrylic polymer and equipped with a retentive device to maintain the mandible in a forward position during sleep. RESULTS: Excellent improvement in the quality of life was observed in five patients (45.5%) and excellent improvement in symptoms in 10 (90.9%). CONCLUSION: The systematic use of the IOMR indicates a clear improvement in the global quality of life as well as in the symptoms of patients with OSAS.

PMID: 15235721 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Non-apneic snoring and the orthodontist: the effectiveness of mandibular advancement splints.

J Orthod. 2004 Jun;31(2):115-23

Authors: Smith AM, Battagel JM

OBJECTIVE: Non-apneic snoring is a very common problem, which impacts on all family members. Oral appliances have been used in the management of snoring. These posture the mandible forward during sleep, opening the airway and so reducing the potential for noise generation. This articles aims to objectively evaluate the effectiveness of mandibular advancement splints (MAS) in non-apneic snorers. DESIGN: Prospective clinical trial. SETTING: University Dental Hospital and School. SUBJECTS AND METHODS: 35 consecutively referred adults with proven non-apneic snoring. INTERVENTIONS: Subjects were fitted with a removable, adjustable Herbst MAS. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Questionnaires determined changes in snoring incidence, daytime tiredness, any side effects and their duration. Eleven subjects completed overnight domiciliary sleep recordings of oxygen saturations, pulse rates and sound profile, before and 1 month after fitting the MAS. RESULTS: The questionnaires and sleep recordings suggested that the MAS significantly reduced snoring incidence (p<0.05) and improved sleep quality. Daytime tiredness, as assessed by the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, was significantly reduced (p<0.001). Initial side effects of muscular and TMJ discomforts were mostly resolved after 1 month of appliance wear. CONCLUSIONS: Use of a MAS improves snoring incidence and sleep quality in most patients with non-apneic snoring.

PMID: 15210927 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The EBD approach.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2004 May;135(5):560, 562; author reply 562, 564, 566

Authors: Simon J

PMID: 15202744 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Efficacy and co-morbidity of oral appliances in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea-hypopnea: a systematic review.

Crit Rev Oral Biol Med. 2004;15(3):137-55

Authors: Hoekema A, Stegenga B, De Bont LG

The Obstructive Sleep Apnea-Hypopnea Syndrome (OSAHS) is a common sleep-related breathing disorder characterized by repetitive obstructions of the upper airway during sleep. Modification of pharyngeal patency by Oral Appliance (OA) therapy has been suggested as an alternative to various treatment modalities for OSAHS. To determine the evidence base with respect to the efficacy and co-morbidity of OA therapy in OSAHS, we conducted a systematic review of the available literature. Primary outcome measures were the reduction in number of upper-airway obstructions and co-morbidity related to the craniomandibular or craniofacial complex, respectively. Eligible studies regarding efficacy were independently assessed by two assessors using a quality assessment scale. Effect sizes of methodologically sound studies were calculated. In identical interventions, effect sizes were pooled with the use of a random-effects model. Given the scarcity of controlled studies related to co-morbidity, appraisal was confined to a description of eligible studies. Sixteen controlled trials related to efficacy were identified. With respect to the primary outcome measure, OA therapy was clearly more effective than control therapy (pooled effect size, -0.96; 95% confidence interval [CI], -1.49 to -0.42) and possibly more effective than uvulopalatopharyngoplasty. Although patients generally preferred OA therapy, improvement of respiratory variables, such as the number of upper-airway obstructions, was usually better in Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) therapy (pooled effect size, 0.83; 95% CI, 0.59 to 1.06). Moreover, specific aspects related to OA design may influence patient-perceived efficacy and preference. Twelve patient-series and one controlled trial related to co-morbidity were identified. Analysis of the data suggests that OA therapy may have adverse effects on the craniomandibular and craniofacial complex. Although CPAP is apparently more effective and adverse effects of OA treatment have been described, it can be concluded that OA therapy is a viable treatment for, especially, mild to moderate OSAHS. Controlled studies addressing the specific indication and co-morbidity of OA therapy are warranted.

PMID: 15187032 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Quantitative polygraphic controlled study on efficacy and safety of oral splint devices in tooth-grinding subjects.

J Dent Res. 2004 May;83(5):398-403

Authors: Dub&#xE9; C, Rompré PH, Manzini C, Guitard F, de Grandmont P, Lavigne GJ

The efficacy of occlusal splints in diminishing muscle activity and tooth-grinding damage remains controversial. The objective of this study was to compare the efficacy and safety of an occlusal splint (OS) vs. a palatal control device (PCD). Nine subjects with sleep bruxism (SB) participated in this randomized study. Sleep laboratory recordings were made on the second night to establish baseline data. Patients then wore each of the splints in the sleep laboratory for recording nights three and four, two weeks apart, according to a crossover design. A statistically significant reduction in the number of SB episodes per hour (decrease of 41%, p = 0.05) and SB bursts per hour (decrease of 40%, p < 0.05) was observed with the two devices. Both oral devices also showed 50% fewer episodes with grinding noise (p = 0.06). No difference was observed between the devices. Moreover, no changes in respiratory variables were observed. Both devices reduced muscle activity associated with SB.

PMID: 15111632 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A case series of temporomandibular disorders treated with acupuncture, occlusal splint and point injection therapy.

Acupunct Med. 2003 Dec;21(4):138-49

Authors: Wong YK, Cheng J

A treatment regime combining acupuncture, occlusal splint and point injection therapy for temporomandibular disorders (TMD) is presented. There were 89 consecutive patients treated by the regime in this case series but four patients dropped out after two to three visits. Data and treatment results of the remaining 85 patients who had treatment completed were analysed. It was found that 73 (85%) of patients with TMD had symptoms relieved within six visits under this regime. Complications were rare and minor. Acupuncture treatment, in combination with splint therapy and point injection therapy, appears to be effective for managing TMD. However, further research, using randomised controlled trials should be conducted to ascertain its effectiveness over other treatment modalities.

PMID: 14740811 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A-mode ultrasound-based registration in computer-aided surgery of the skull.

Arch Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. 2003 Dec;129(12):1310-6

Authors: Amstutz C, Caversaccio M, Kowal J, Bächler R, Nolte LP, Häusler R, Styner M

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the integration and accuracy of A (amplitude)-mode ultrasound-based surface matching for noninvasive registration of the head into a frameless computer-aided surgery system for otorhinology and skull base surgery. DESIGN: Experimental study and case series. SETTING: Academic medical center. PATIENTS: Twelve patients underwent anterior and paranasal skull base surgery with the routine use of a computer-aided surgery system. INTERVENTIONS: A computer-aided surgery system, based on an optoelectronic localizer, was used to track the skull and the surgical tools, including the A-mode ultrasound probe. The A-mode probe was a 10-MHz immersion transducer. An acoustic lens attached to the transducer focused the ultrasonic beam to a depth of 1 to 10 mm. Accuracy tests were performed for the ultrasound setup. Different surface point distributions were evaluated with respect to matching accuracy on a human cadaver skull specimen equipped with fiducial markers. The matching comparison was based on the fiducial registration error. For the clinical evaluation, the laboratory setup was transferred to the operating room. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Noninvasive registration of the skull by using A-mode ultrasound in computer-aided surgery (practical and clinical measurements). RESULTS: The accuracy tests on the human skull specimen revealed that the mean +/- SD fiducial registration error was 1.00 +/- 0.19 mm in the best series for A-mode ultrasound surface matchings and was robust with respect to different sets of surface points. The mean +/- SD root mean square error from the 12 A-mode ultrasound matchings in the patient study was 0.49 +/- 0.20 mm. CONCLUSION: A-mode ultrasound surface matching can be used as a noninvasive and accurate registration procedure in computer-aided surgery of the head.

PMID: 14676157 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

An involvement of trigeminal mesencephalic neurons in regulation of occlusal vertical dimension in the guinea pig.

J Dent Res. 2003 Jul;82(7):565-9

Authors: Zhang W, Kobayashi M, Moritani M, Masuda Y, Dong J, Yagi T, Maeda T, Morimoto T

Although the occlusal vertical dimension (OVD) is strictly controlled, the neuronal mechanism of its regulation is still unclear. We hypothesize that neurons in the trigeminal mesencephalic nucleus (MesV) play an important role in the regulation of the OVD, because the MesV receives the projection from jaw-closing muscle spindles and periodontal mechanoreceptors. We measured the temporal OVD change in the guinea pig to study the effects of MesV lesions on the OVD. OVD-raised animals without MesV lesions showed a rapid OVD decrease to the same level as that in naïve controls, followed by an OVD increase after the OVD-raising appliance was removed. In contrast, OVD-raised animals with MesV lesions showed only a slight decrease in the OVD for 15 days after removal of the appliance, and then the OVD increased. The time-course of OVD development in normal-bite animals with MesV lesions was similar to that of naïve controls. These results suggest that MesV neurons are involved in OVD regulation.

PMID: 12821720 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Occlusal and TMJ loads in subjects with experimentally shortened dental arches.

J Dent Res. 2003 Jul;82(7):532-6

Authors: Hattori Y, Satoh C, Seki S, Watanabe Y, Ogino Y, Watanabe M

To determine whether shortened dental arches (SDAs) cause functional overloading of the teeth and the temporomandibular joints, which has been implicated in periodontal diseases and temporomandibular disorders, we investigated the influences of SDA on occlusal and joint loads. Bite force and masticatory muscle electromyograms were recorded in five dentate subjects who clenched maximally on intra-oral appliances, creating symmetrical SDAs experimentally. Muscular forces estimated from the recorded electromyograms were fed into a finite element jaw model for calculating bite forces and joint loads. Comparison between the measured and the calculated bite forces ensured that the joint loads were representative. The bite force on each tooth increased with missing molar occlusions, while joint loads decreased. The bite force per root surface area was always greatest on the most posterior tooth, and these values were most constant. The findings provide no evidence that SDA causes overloading of the joints and the teeth, which suggests that neuromuscular regulatory systems are controlling maximum clenching strength under various occlusal conditions.

PMID: 12821714 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Effect of oral appliance therapy on upper airway collapsibility in obstructive sleep apnea.

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2003 Jul 15;168(2):238-41

Authors: Ng AT, Gotsopoulos H, Qian J, Cistulli PA

Oral appliance therapy is emerging as an alternative to continuous positive airway pressure for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, its precise mechanisms of action are yet to be defined. We examined the effect of a mandibular advancement splint (MAS) on upper airway collapsibility during sleep in OSA. Ten patients with proven OSA had a custom-made MAS incrementally adjusted during an acclimatization period until the maximum comfortable limit of mandibular advancement was reached. Polysomnography with the splint was then performed. After a 1-week washout period, upper airway closing pressures during sleep (with and without MAS) were determined. Significant improvements with MAS therapy were seen in the apnea/hypopnea index (25.0 +/- 3.1 vs. 13.2 +/- 4.5/hour, p < 0.03) and upper airway closing pressure in Stage 2 sleep (-1.6 +/- 0.4 vs. -3.9 +/- 0.6 cm H2O, p < 0.01) and in slow wave sleep (-2.5 +/- 0.7 vs. -4.7 +/- 0.6 cm H2O, p < 0.02) compared with no therapy. These preliminary data indicate that MAS therapy is associated with improved upper airway collapsibility during sleep. The mediators of this effect remain to be determined.

PMID: 12724125 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Moulding of the generate to control open bite during mandibular distraction osteogenesis.

Eur J Orthod. 2002 Dec;24(6):639-45

Authors: Peltom&#xE4;ki T, Grayson BH, Vendittelli BL, Katzen T, McCarthy JG

Distraction osteogenesis of the craniofacial skeleton has become a widely accepted, safe, and effective means of craniofacial reconstructive surgery. Despite excellent results in general, there are still some uncertainties related to the procedure, such as development of an anterior open bite (AOB) during mandibular distraction. The aim of this study was to examine whether 'moulding of the generate', i.e. use of intermaxillary elastics during the active distraction phase is possible to close the mandibular plane angle and open bite. Three subjects, 13- and 15-year-old males and a 7-year-old female, underwent mandibular linear and angular bilateral distraction osteogenesis with moulding of the generate. Lateral cephalograms were obtained before the introduction of elastics and following distraction, once the activation was stopped and the patients were ready for the consolidation phase. Conventional cephalometric measurements were used to assess possible changes in the mandibular plane angle and incisor position. Three different anchorage systems (dental, orthopaedic, and skeletal) were used for placement of the intermaxillary elastics. Cephalometric examination showed that the mandibular plane angle was decreased during active distraction osteogenesis with the introduction of elastics and angulation of the distraction device. Depending on the type of elastic anchorage system, smaller or greater amounts of extrusion of the incisors were noted. Moulding of the generate during active distraction can be performed to reduce the mandibular plane angle and open bite. To prevent unwanted dentoalveolar changes from occurring during elastic traction, skeletal rather than dental fixation of the elastics is recommended. Intrusive mechanics may be incorporated into the orthodontic appliances to balance extrusive force by the moulding elastics.

PMID: 12512781 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Oral care for patients with bulimia.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2002 Dec;133(12):1689-91

Authors: Christensen GJ

Various conditions cause rapid and debilitating erosion of teeth. One of the most common is bulimia, or the binge-purge syndrome. Dentists frequently encounter patients who have this problem. The dentist should confirm the possibility of bulimia, refer the patient to a competent eating-disorder clinic, counsel the patient about her or his condition and restore the patient's mouth to a state of health and esthetic acceptability. Dental treatment of such patients will vary depending on the severity of the erosion.

PMID: 12512670 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A review of the clinical management of mobile teeth.

J Contemp Dent Pract. 2002 Nov 15;3(4):10-22

Authors: Bernal G, Carvajal JC, Mu&#xF1;oz-Viveros CA

The clinical management of mobile teeth can be a perplexing problem, especially if the underlying causes for that mobility have not been properly diagnosed. In some cases, mobile teeth are retained because patients decline multidisciplinary treatment that might otherwise include strategic extractions. This article discusses the relationship between occlusion and tooth mobility with an emphasis on identifying differences between increased mobility and increasing mobility. The indications, contraindications, and basic principles of tooth splinting are also reviewed. Provisional and definitive splints are defined and described with their respective occlusal considerations. Some mobile teeth can be treated through occlusal equilibration alone (primary occlusal trauma). Whereas mobile teeth with a compromised periodontium can be stabilized with the aid of provisional and/or definitive splinting (secondary occlusal trauma). It is important to consider splint therapy, because it may not only improve the prognosis of teeth, but may actually enhance the stability of the final prosthodontic treatment. The ultimate goal of successful management of mobile teeth is to restore function and comfort by establishing a stable occlusion that promotes tooth retention and the maintenance of periodontal health.

PMID: 12444399 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Cranial base considerations between apnoeics and non-apnoeic snorers, and associated effects of long-term mandibular advancement on condylar and natural head position.

Eur J Orthod. 2002 Aug;24(4):353-61

Authors: Robertson C

One hundred consecutively medically referred patients (58 apnoeic and 42 asymptomatic snorers) were reviewed cephalometrically at six-monthly intervals (6-30 months) following treatment for obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) and/or habitual snoring by mandibular advancement. Eighty-seven males and 13 females (mean age 49 years, SD 8.5, range 33-74) were included in this study. Reference points and planes in the cranial base, nasopharynx, and mandibular condyle were digitized with a Reflex Metrograph and their means converted to linear and angular measurements. No statistically significant differences were observed between the apnoeic and non-apnoeic groups in either their skeletal or cranial base measurements. All linear cranial base dimensions were, however, reduced in the apnoeic group, with the exception of the distance (S-SE). Following mandibular advancement, statistically significant changes were observed in vertical condylar position (Cd-vert) with changes occurring at 6 (P < 0.012), 18 (P < 0.043), and 24 months (P < 0.007). No changes in horizontal condylar position (Cd-horiz) were found. Significant changes were observed in natural head position (NHP) with a reduction from an extended (NSL-vert 99.7 degrees) to a more upright NHP (NSL-vert 93.0, P < 0.001).

PMID: 12198865 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

The efficacy of anterior repositioning splint therapy studied by magnetic resonance imaging.

Eur J Orthod. 2002 Aug;24(4):343-52

Authors: Eberhard D, Bantleon HP, Steger W

Magnetic resonance images (MRIs) were obtained of 52 temporomandibular joints (TMJs) of 30 patients with TMJ disease, before insertion of an anterior repositioning splint. Ten TMJs showed a normal disc-condyle relationship. Pathological findings were partial or complete anterior disc displacement with disc reduction (n = 18), without (n = 7), or with partial reduction (n = 4) or non-reducing joints combined with osteoarthrosis (n = 13). Associated clinical findings were joint clicking, painful TMJ movements with or without condyle limitation, deviation, or crepitus. The clinical evaluation when compared with the MRIs correlated in 75 per cent of cases. Immediate post-insertion MRIs showed recapture of discs with a protrusive splint in 15 out of 18 reducing displacements. Recapture of the disc was seen in only two out of four joints with anterior disc displacement with partial disc reduction. There was no recapture in non-reducing joints. In severe cases of internal derangement with a wide range of disc displacement combined with changes of the osseous joint surfaces, the recapturing of the articular disc with an anterior repositioning appliance was unsuccessful (0 of 13). The follow-up for pain relief after one week showed a significant reduction of symptoms, despite the fact that recapture of the dislocated disc occurred in only 17 of the 42 pathological TMJs. The possibility for disc recapture depends on the disc-condyle position and configuration, the integrity of the posterior attachment, and the degree of degenerative changes of the intra-articular structures, such as osteophytosis, condylar erosion, or flattening of the articular disc. This diagnostic information influences the method of treatment of TMJ disorders. In non-reducing joints or in the later stages of internal derangement of the TMJ, it is not possible to achieve a normal disc-condyle relationship using protrusive splints.

PMID: 12198864 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A comparative study of two mandibular advancement appliances for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea.

Eur J Orthod. 2002 Apr;24(2):191-8

Authors: Rose E, Staats R, Virchow C, Jonas IE

Mandibular advancement appliances (MAAs) are accepted as a treatment option for snoring and mild obstructive sleep disorders. In the present clinical study two differently designed devices were examined for their effectiveness in treating obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA). The study was based on an assessment of 26 patients with a polysomnographic diagnosis of mild OSA [22 men, four women; mean body mass index 27.3 kg/m2 (SD 3.1); mean age 56.8 years (SD 5.2); mean respiratory disturbance index (RDI): 16.0 events/hour (SD 4.4)]. After insertion of the first MAA and a 6-8-week habituation period, a cardio-respiratory home-sleep study was carried out. Following a 2-3-week period with no treatment, the second appliance was inserted. The sequence of the devices was randomized. Once the patients had become accustomed to the second appliance, another somnographic registration was carried out. Daytime sleepiness, snoring, and sleep quality were assessed subjectively on a visual analogue scale. The results showed that a statistically significant improvement in the respiratory parameters was achieved with both appliances (P < 0.01). However, the activator [RDI: 5.5 events/hour, SD 3.3; apnoea index (AI): 3.4 events/hour, SD 2.1] was significantly more effective (P < 0.01) than the Silencor (RDI, 7.3 events/hour, SD 5.3; AI: 5.8 events/hour, SD 3.2). No difference was recorded in the subjective assessment of the therapeutic effects. Both appliances reduced daytime sleepiness and snoring and improved sleep quality, and both influenced the treatment outcome.

PMID: 12001556 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

One-night mandibular advancement titration for obstructive sleep apnea syndrome: a pilot study.

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002 Apr 15;165(8):1150-3

Authors: P&#xE9;telle B, Vincent G, Gagnadoux F, Rakotonanahary D, Meyer B, Fleury B

The effect of a dental appliance (DA) is usually evaluated in a single mandibular position reached after several weeks and corresponding to either improvement of symptoms or intolerance to any further advancement. The purpose of this study was to test the feasibility of one-night evaluation of the efficacy of a DA. The study population consisted of seven patients (six men) with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (66.9 +/- 32.4 apneas and/or hypopneas per hour). Patients underwent two consecutive polysomnographies; first with a temporary DA (two arches connected by a hydraulic system) progressively adjusted during the night to correct sleep disordered breathing and second with a permanent DA (two arches connected by Herbst attachments) set to the effective degree of advancement during the titration night. All patients completed the protocol. The mean mandibular advancement reached during the titration night was 12.6 +/- 2.7 mm. Arousal was never observed during or for 60 seconds following advancement. The apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) was significantly reduced from 66.9 +/- 32.4 to 26.1 +/- 20.7 per hour during the titration night from the diagnostic night (p < 0.01). During the second night, the AHI was 19.6 +/- 20.2 per hour and was less than 20 per hour in 71.4% of patients and less than 10 per hour in 42.9% of patients. The efficacy of a DA can be evaluated during a single night of polysomnography.

PMID: 11956060 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Morphologic changes in the TMJ following splint wear.

Anat Rec. 2002 Mar 1;266(3):167-76

Authors: Sindelar BJ, Edwards S, Herring SW

Intraoral splints are a commonly used dental treatment for a variety of conditions. Because such splints alter the condyle-disc-fossa relationship, they probably change the loading status of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ), including the TMJ disc. Collagen, a major constituent of the disc, acts to resist tensile loading, and it is presumed that the fiber orientations of the individual disc bands reflect their functional loading. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to examine effects of intraoral splint wear on TMJ morphology in general, and collagen orientation of the intra-articular disc in particular. Young adult, female miniature pigs were divided into three groups: open-bite splint, protrusive-bite splint, and unsplinted control. Splints were worn for 2 months, after which the TMJ discs were harvested for histological examination and stereological analysis, and the skulls were cleaned. Although the splints had no effect on skull dimensions, changes were seen in the TMJs. The discs of the protrusively-splinted group showed an increased thickness of the posterior band (P < 0.015) and minor changes in collagen orientation of the anterior band. The most striking change was the presence of a degenerative osseous defect on the medial side of the mandibular condyle in half of the splinted animals. These results indicate that prolonged splint wear can induce remodeling and even injury of TMJ tissues.

PMID: 11870599 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Randomized controlled study of an oral jaw-positioning appliance for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea in children with malocclusion.

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2002 Jan 1;165(1):123-7

Authors: Villa MP, Bernkopf E, Pagani J, Broia V, Montesano M, Ronchetti R

To evaluate the clinical usefulness and tolerability of an oral jaw-positioning appliance in the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome in children, we studied 32 patients (mean age, 7.1 +/- 2.6 yr; 20 males) with symptoms of obstructive sleep apnea, malocclusion, and a baseline apnea index > 1 event/h. A group of 19 subjects was randomly assigned to a 6-mo trial of an oral appliance; the remainder acted as control subjects. At baseline and after the trial all patients underwent physical examination, a standard polysomnography, and orthodontic assessment. A modified version of the Brouillette questionnaire related to obstructive sleep apnea symptoms was administered to parents before and after the trial and a clinical score was calculated. Of the 32 subjects enrolled, 4 treated subjects and 5 control subjects were lost to follow-up. Polysomnography after the trial showed that treated subjects all had significantly lower apnea index (p < 0.001) and hypopnea index values (p < 0.001) than before the trial, whereas in untreated control subjects these values remained almost unchanged. Clinical assessment before and after treatment showed that in 7 of the 14 subjects (50%) the oral appliance had reduced (a fall of at least 2 points in the respiratory score) and in 7 had resolved the main respiratory symptoms, whereas untreated patients continued to have symptoms. In conclusion, treatment of obstructive sleep apnea syndrome with an oral appliance in children with malocclusion is effective and well tolerated.

PMID: 11779741 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Teaching patients how to stop bruxing habits.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2001 Sep;132(9):1275-7

Authors: Shulman J

PMID: 11665353 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Occlusal stabilization appliances. Evidence of their efficacy.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2001 Jun;132(6):770-7

Authors: Kreiner M, Betancor E, Clark GT

BACKGROUND: There is substantial controversy regarding the value of occlusal appliances for managing temporomandibular joint disorders. This article specifically assesses whether the evidence is sufficient to judge occlusal appliances as being efficacious for the management of localized masticatory myalgia, arthralgia or both. A major confounder is that few studies have measured or evaluated whether subjects had strong, ongoing parafunctional activity (such as clenching or grinding) and whether appliances influenced this behavior. LITERATURE REVIEWED: The authors evaluated four placebo-controlled studies, several randomized wait-list controlled studies and several random-assignment treatment-comparison studies. Data from the wait-list condition studies vs. those from the occlusal appliance condition studies consistently suggested that the latter treatment's effect on patient symptom level is far more than that of no treatment on a wait-list group's condition. In contrast, the studies on placebo-controlled vs. occlusal appliance studies yielded a mix of data: two showed a positive benefit of occlusal vs. nonoccluding appliances, and two showed a null effect or no difference. CONCLUSIONS: Considering all of the available data (pro and con), the authors conclude that the use of occlusal appliances in managing localized masticatory myalgia, arthralgia or both is sufficiently supported by evidence in the literature. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The mechanism of action by which occlusal appliances affect localized myalgia and arthralgia probably is behavioral modification of jaw clenching. However, if the behavior continues unabated, even the best splint will not work.

PMID: 11433856 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Current principles in the management of obstructive sleep apnoea with mandibular advancement appliances.

Br Dent J. 2001 May 26;190(10):532-6

Authors: Johal A, Battagel JM

This paper looks at the role of mandibular advancement splints in the management of obstructive sleep apnoea, as part of a multidisciplinary approach. Clinical guidance is provided on the rationale for use, patient selection, design features and the associated risk to benefit ratio.

PMID: 11411887 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Orthodontic side-effects of mandibular advancement devices during treatment of snoring and sleep apnoea.

Eur J Orthod. 2001 Apr;23(2):135-44

Authors: Marklund M, Franklin KA, Persson M

The aims of this study were to investigate possible orthodontic side-effects following the use of mandibular advancement devices (MAD) in adults with snoring and sleep apnoea. A second objective was to analyse the effect of the appliance design. Seventy-five patients treated with MAD and 17 reference patients were studied at follow-up after 2.5 +/- 0.5 years. In the test group, 47 patients were provided with soft elastomeric devices, while the remaining 28 patients received hard acrylic devices. The treatment induced a change in overjet of -0.4 +/- 0.8 mm (mean +/- SD) and a change in overbite of -0.4 +/- 0.7 mm (mean +/- SD). These changes were larger than those found in the reference group (P < 0.01). The odds ratio (OR) for the largest quartile of reduction in overjet was 3.8 in patients using hard acrylic devices compared with those using soft elastomeric devices (P < 0.05). A large reduction in overjet in patients using the hard acrylic devices was unrelated to the degree of mandibular protrusion by the device. The OR for a large reduction in overjet in patients using the soft elastomeric devices with a protrusion of 6 mm or above was 6.8 compared with smaller mandibular protrusions (P < 0.05). The results indicate that the orthodontic side-effects are small during the treatment of adult subjects with MAD for snoring and sleep apnoea, especially in patients using soft elastomeric devices with mandibular protrusions of less than 6 mm. The follow-up of patients treated with MAD is recommended, as individual patients may experience marked orthodontic side-effects.

PMID: 11398551 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Oral appliances for the management of severe snoring: a randomized controlled trial.

Eur J Orthod. 2001 Apr;23(2):127-34

Authors: Johnston CD, Gleadhill IC, Cinnamond MJ, Peden WM

The aim of this randomized controlled trial was to assess the effectiveness of a mandibular advancement appliance (MAA) in managing severe snoring. Twenty-eight adults with severe snoring and normal overnight oximetry were recruited from sleep disorder clinics. A maxillary placebo appliance and a MAA were worn by each subject for a period of 4-6 weeks each. Questionnaires at baseline and after each appliance period assessed bed partners' reports of snoring severity (loudness and number of nights per week), and patients' records of daytime sleepiness. Twenty-five subjects completed the entire trial. The MAA was significantly more effective than the placebo in reducing the frequency and loudness of snoring, the reported daytime sleepiness and the frequency of morning tiredness. Excessive salivation was the most commonly reported complication. It was concluded that the custom-made MAA was significantly more effective than the placebo in managing the main symptoms of severe snoring. However, not all subjects' partners reported an improvement with the MAA, with 84 per cent reporting a reduction in snoring loudness and 76 per cent reporting snoring on fewer nights per week.

PMID: 11398550 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Randomized controlled evaluation of non-surgical treatments for temporomandibular joint anterior disk displacement without reduction.

J Dent Res. 2001 Mar;80(3):924-8

Authors: Minakuchi H, Kuboki T, Matsuka Y, Maekawa K, Yatani H, Yamashita A

The common methods for treating anterior disk displacement without reduction (ADDwor) are not based on randomized controlled clinical trials. Our study evaluated non-surgical treatments in 69 MRI-confirmed ADDwor subjects (m/f = 6/63). Subjects were randomly assigned to a control group and one of two treatment groups. Outcomes included maximum mouth opening, visual analogue scale of pain, and daily activity limitation. Calibrated examiners collected data at the initial interview and at 0, 2, 4, and 8 weeks of treatment. At the eight-week point, within-group improvements were present for all variables, for all groups. Between-group differences were not highly evident, with only mean daily activity limitation for the self-care/NSAID group being significantly lower than that of the occlusal appliance/jaw mobilization + self-care/NSAID group at the two- and four-week time-points. These results suggest that ADDwor subjects will improve with only minimal treatment intervention, and no significant difference was evident for the treatments tested and the control condition.

PMID: 11379897 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

A randomized, controlled study of a mandibular advancement splint for obstructive sleep apnea.

Am J Respir Crit Care Med. 2001 May;163(6):1457-61

Authors: Mehta A, Qian J, Petocz P, Darendeliler MA, Cistulli PA

Although there is increasing interest in the use of oral appliances to treat obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), the evidence base for this is weak. Furthermore, the precise mechanisms of action are uncertain. We aimed to systematically investigate the efficacy of a novel mandibular advancement splint (MAS) in patients with OSA. The sample consisted of 28 patients with proven OSA. A randomized, controlled three-period (ABB/BAA) crossover study design was used. After an acclimatization period, patients underwent three polysomnographs with either a control oral plate, which did not advance the mandible (A), or MAS (B), 1 wk apart, in either the ABB or BAA sequence. Complete response (CR) was defined as a resolution of symptoms and a reduction in Apnea/Hypopnea Index (AHI) to < 5/h, and partial response (PR) as a > or = 50% reduction in AHI, but remaining > or = 5/h. Twenty-four patients (19 men, 5 women) completed the protocol. Subjective improvements with the MAS were reported by the majority of patients (96%). There were significant improvements in AHI (30 +/- 2/h versus 14 +/- 2/h, p < 0.0001), MinSa(O(2)) (87 +/- 1% versus 91 +/- 1%, p < 0.0001), and arousal index (41 +/- 2/h versus 27 +/- 2/h, p < 0.0001) with MAS, compared with the control. The control plate had no significant effect on AHI and MinSa(O(2)). CR (n = 9) or PR (n = 6) was achieved in 62.5% of patients. The MAS is an effective treatment in some patients with OSA, including those patients with moderate or severe OSA.

PMID: 11371418 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Selecting sleep-disordered-breathing appliances. Biomechanical considerations.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2001 Mar;132(3):339-47

Authors: George PT

BACKGROUND: Dentists who wish to provide sleep-disordered-breathing therapy have many different mandibular advancement devices, or MADs, from which to select. Documented research directly about the variations in MADs is sparse. TYPES OF STUDIES REVIEWED: The author reviewed dental and medical literature dealing with biological and mechanical principles affecting the function of MADs. RESULTS: The author found that MADs vary in four major areas: freedom of mandibular movement, amount and rigidity of dental coverage, amount of mandibular advancement and amount of bite opening. Each of these areas appears to affect the appliance's efficacy, safety or both. The main potential detrimental effect of MADs is occlusal shifting. The author presents biological and mechanical considerations in an attempt to determine the optimum parameters for each of the MAD variation areas. The MAD must be constructed in a manner and with material that secures the mandible in its optimum position. The optimum mandibular position needs to be captured and transferred to the articulator with an accurate construction bite. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: MAD therapy may last a lifetime. Therefore, dentists must consider the efficacy and the safety of an MAD when selecting an appliance. Since occlusal shifting appears to be the main potential detrimental effect, dentists should consider all available means to monitor and minimize these changes.

PMID: 11258091 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Widespread pain and the effectiveness of oral splints in myofascial face pain.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2001 Mar;132(3):305-16

Authors: Raphael KG, Marbach JJ

BACKGROUND: The research literature reaches inconsistent conclusions about the efficacy of oral splints for treating myofascial face pain. This investigation hypothesizes that their effectiveness varies as a function of the presence or absence of widespread pain. METHODS: In a randomized, controlled clinical trial, 63 women with myofascial face pain were assigned to use of either an active, maxillary, flat-plane, hard acrylic splint or a palatal splint that did not interfere with occlusion. Participants also were classified according to the presence or absence of widespread pain throughout the body. After six weeks, groups were compared regarding pain on palpation, self-reported pain and functional outcome. RESULTS: Overall, the findings showed a modest tendency for subjects receiving the active vs. the palatal splint to exhibit improvement on self-reported pain and functional outcome. On further division of the sample into subjects with local vs. widespread pain, the general pattern showed that patients with widespread pain who received an active splint did not experience improvement, while patients with local pain who received the active splint did. CONCLUSIONS: The presence or absence of widespread pain may help to define the specific circumstances under which oral splints should be prescribed for patients with myofascial face pain. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Clinicians should screen patients with myofascial face pain for the presence of widespread pain, since this comorbid symptom pattern may be a contraindication for the use of oral splints.

PMID: 11258087 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Now is the time to observe and treat dental occlusion.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2001 Jan;132(1):100-2

Authors: Christensen GJ

PMID: 11194387 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Sleep disordered breathing.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Nov;131(11):1536, 1538

Authors: Pantino DA, Rogers RR

PMID: 11103571 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Diagnosing and comanaging patients with obstructive sleep apnea syndrome.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Aug;131(8):1178-84

Authors: Friedlander AH, Walker LA, Friedlander IK, Felsenfeld AL

BACKGROUND: Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, or OSAS, is a common, but underdiagnosed, disorder that potentially is fatal. It is characterized by repetitive episodes of complete or partial upper airway obstruction leading to absent or diminished airflow into the lungs. These episodes usually last 10 to 30 seconds and result in loud snoring, a decrease in oxygen saturation, and chronic daytime sleepiness and fatigue. The obstruction is caused by the soft palate, base of the tongue or both collapsing against the pharyngeal walls because of decreased muscle tone during sleep. Potentially fatal systemic illnesses frequently associated with this disorder include hypertension, pulmonary hypertension, heart failure, nocturnal cardiac dysrhythmias, myocardial infarction and ischemic stroke. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: The classic signs and symptoms of OSAS may be recognizable by dental practitioners. Common findings in the medical history include daytime sleepiness, snoring, hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus. Common clinical findings include obesity; a thick neck; excessive fat deposition in the palate, tongue (enlarged) and pharynx; a long soft palate; a retrognathic mandible; and calcified carotid artery atheromas on panoramic and lateral cephalometric radiographs. CONCLUSIONS: Dentists cognizant of these signs and symptoms have an opportunity to diagnose patients with occult OSAS. After confirmation of the diagnosis by a physician, dentists can participate in management of the disorder by fabricating mandibular advancement appliances and performing surgical procedures that prevent recurrent airway obstruction.

PMID: 10953534 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Treating obstructive sleep apnea and snoring: assessment of an anterior mandibular positioning device.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Jun;131(6):765-71

Authors: Clark GT, Sohn JW, Hong CN

BACKGROUND: Dental devices have been used to help manage snoring and obstructive sleep apnea, or OSA. This article reports on patients' compliance with and complications of long-term use of an anterior mandibular positioning, or AMP, device. METHODS: The device used was a custom-made, two-piece, full-coverage, adjustable acrylic appliance, connected with Herbst attachments. The appliance was used nightly and advanced the mandible by 75 percent of the patient's maximum protrusive distance. Patients were telephoned to determine whether they were still using the AMP device. If not, they were asked when and why they stopped using it. The study sample included 65 consecutive patients with mild-to-moderate obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. RESULTS: Long-term use (three years or more) of the AMP device in these patients was 51 percent (27 of 53 patients). Of the 53 responding patients, 40 percent reported jaw/facial muscle pain, 40 percent had occlusal changes, 38 percent reported tooth pain, 30 percent reported jaw joint pain and 30 percent experienced xerostomia. Of the 27 long-term AMP users, 22 rated themselves as being very satisfied and four as somewhat satisfied; one was neither satisfied nor dissatisfied with the appliance. CONCLUSIONS: It was determined that with use of the AMP device, 40 percent of patients will develop some minor complications of jaw, mouth and/or tooth pain, and approximately 26 percent of long-term users might experience a painless but irreversible change in their occlusion. Annual follow-up office visits with the dentist appear necessary for early detection of these changes. CLINICAL IMPLICATIONS: Patients with mild-to-moderate OSA who receive a two-piece, adjustable AMP device should be informed that 50 percent of patients quit using the device in a three-year period and some will experience shifts in their occlusion.

PMID: 10860328 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Postoperative care for patients with implant prostheses.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Apr;131(4):523-4

Authors: Williamson R

PMID: 10770019 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Treating bruxism and clenching.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Apr;131(4):436

Authors: Harnick DJ

PMID: 10770004 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Long-term follow-up of clinical symptoms in TMD patients who underwent occlusal reconstruction by orthodontic treatment.

Eur J Orthod. 2000 Feb;22(1):61-7

Authors: Imai T, Okamoto T, Kaneko T, Umeda K, Yamamoto T, Nakamura S

Fifty-eight patients (mean age 18.4 years) who had received splint therapy for internal derangement of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) were examined retrospectively to investigate the efficacy of occlusal reconstruction by orthodontic treatment. The subjects were divided into three groups: 18 patients (mean age 18.6 years) who underwent orthodontic treatment combined with the use of splints (ST group); 27 patients (mean age 18.2 years) who underwent orthodontic treatment without the use of splints (NST group); and 13 patients (mean age 17.9 years) who received only splint therapy for temporomandibular joint disorders (TMD; control group). TMJ sound, pain on movement and restriction of mandibular movement were examined at the initial examination (T1), at the end of the splint therapy for TMD or beginning of orthodontic treatment (T2), at the end of orthodontic treatment (T3), and at recall or 1 year after orthodontic treatment (T4). The following results were found. (1) The percentage of patients with no joint sound at T2 was 20-30 per cent. The percentage of such patients in both the ST and NST groups increased to over 50 per cent at T3, but slightly decreased to 39-50 per cent at T4. There were no significant inter-group differences at any time point. (2) The number of patients who had no pain on movement at T2 was 60-80 per cent. The percentage of such patients in both the ST and NST groups increased to over 90 per cent at T3, but then slightly decreased to 80 per cent at T4. There were no significant inter-group differences at any time point. (3) None of the patients showed restriction of movement of the TMJ at T2 or T4. One patient in the ST group was found to have restriction at T3. There were no significant inter-group differences at any time point. (4) The most frequent type of malocclusion in both ST and NST groups was anterior open bite. These results suggest that TMD symptoms that have been eliminated by splint therapy are not likely to recur due to subsequent orthodontic treatment, but it cannot be concluded that orthodontic treatment itself had a positive effect on TMD symptoms. The results also indicate that there is a relationship between anterior open bite and TMD.

PMID: 10721246 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Craniomandibular status and function in patients with habitual snoring and obstructive sleep apnoea after nocturnal treatment with a mandibular advancement splint: a 2-year follow-up.

Eur J Orthod. 2000 Feb;22(1):53-60

Authors: Bondemark L, Lindman R

The aim of the investigation was to evaluate the status and function of the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) and masticatory system in patients with habitual snoring and obstructive apnoea after 2 years nocturnal treatment with a mandibular advancement splint. Thirty-two patients participated in the study, ranging from 43.0 to 79.8 years of age (mean 54.4 years, SD 8.78) at the start of treatment. All patients had been referred from the ENT department for treatment with a mandibular advancement splint. The acrylic splint advanced the mandible 50-70 per cent of maximal protrusion, opened 5 mm vertically, and was used 6-8 hours per night and 5-7 nights per week. Overjet, overbite, and molar relationship were measured on dental casts. The patients were asked to answer a questionnaire concerning symptoms of craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD). They were also clinically examined in a standardized manner, including registration of range of mandibular movements, TMJ sounds, pain on movement, and palpatory tenderness of the TMJ and the masticatory muscles. None of the patients showed more than five symptoms of dysfunction either at the start of or after 2 years of treatment. A decrease in the frequency of headache was found for nine of those 18 patients that reported headache (P = 0.004). A minor, but significant decrease in overjet and overbite was found and the molar relationship was also changed. It was concluded that 2 years' treatment with a mandibular advancement splint had no adverse effects on the craniomandibular status and function, but the observed occlusal changes requires further evaluation.

PMID: 10721245 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]

Treating bruxism and clenching.

J Am Dent Assoc. 2000 Feb;131(2):233-5

Authors: Christensen GJ

PMID: 10680392 [PubMed - indexed for MEDLINE]